CAMBA's Adult Literacy Center held its second annual Recognition Ceremony this month, to honor the strides made by the program's adult learners over the past year.

More than 100 family members, friends, CAMBA staff and fellow students gathered in the Flatbush Reform Church to celebrate the Center's Adult Basic Education and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students, and its recent High School Equivalency Diploma recipients. Teachers took to the stage throughout the afternoon, recognizing all of their students and handing out special honors to those who have stood out among their peers - for accomplishments and performance in class, often in the face of adversity outside of the classroom.

"It's not easy to say that you need help," said Jude Pierre, CAMBA Program Manager, to the students sitting before him. "I thank you for trusting us to help you when you need it."

Student Kimberly Peters offered perspective on what the classes provide for her and her classmates, many of whom are recent immigrants. "We don't only get prepared for a high school diploma. We also get used to life in the U.S." Peters continued, "CAMBA provides an atmosphere that motivates us to be successful -- I'm really thankful for the opportunity to further my education."

This year's ceremony also included lunch, a raffle for prizes at local businesses and a line-up of diverse music and dance performance by Center students.

CAMBA's Adult Literacy Center serves almost 1,000 adults each year in the Flatbush and East Flatbush communities. Beyond English and literacy, the Center's classes include math, civics, U.S. history and computer-assisted technology training. All classes are free and taught by professional instructors.